Why is matcha in powder form?

Matcha stands out with its texture: while most teas come in whole or broken leaves for steeping, matcha is ground into an ultra-fine green powder. But why this difference? Is it just about texture, or is there a deeper reason behind this unique characteristic?

 

A unique process for a different experience

Matcha is a type of green tea, but unlike others, it isn’t steeped—it’s blended directly into water. This means you consume the entire tea leaf, maximizing nutrient and antioxidant intake.

The production process follows precise steps:

1. Shade-grown cultivation: Before harvest, tea plants are covered for several weeks to enhance their chlorophyll content and natural sweetness.
2. Harvesting and drying: Only the youngest, most tender leaves are selected, then dried to retain their properties.
3. Stone grinding: This final step turns the dried leaves into an ultra-fine powder. Slow grinding is essential to prevent heat from altering the flavor and nutrients.

 

Why not simply brew the leaves?

Matcha contains many active compounds, including antioxidants, caffeine, and L-theanine. By consuming it in powder form, you absorb 100% of the tea leaf’s benefits, whereas with traditional steeped tea, some nutrients remain trapped in the discarded leaves.

Additionally, its powdered form makes matcha highly versatile—not just for tea, but also for lattes, smoothies, pastries, and other culinary creations.

 

A unique texture and taste

Matcha’s ultra-fine grind gives it an incomparable texture. Unlike other green teas that can be more astringent, matcha provides a smooth, velvety mouthfeel, especially when properly whisked with a chasen (bamboo whisk). This fine grinding plays a crucial role in matcha’s signature smoothness and richness.

 

A powder that changes everything

Matcha’s powdered form is no coincidence. This transformation preserves all the nutritional properties of the tea leaves, creates a richer tasting experience, and allows for diverse uses. More than just tea, matcha is an entirely unique way to experience the world of tea.